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Category: Processing

Fermentation

Fermentation

Fermentation is the process by which certain microorganisms modify a substrate, primarily in a positive manner. In the case of bread, we often refer to fermentation when discussing the processes by which yeast produces CO2 and alcohol from sugars. However, fermentation also includes the action of lactic and acetic bacteria when creating sourdough. Previous blog entries have covered yeast and sourdough. Today, we will focus on the changes that the dough undergoes and the factors to control in these processes….

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Division and Rounding

Division and Rounding

In baking, there are certain operations between kneading and the final fermentation that are often overlooked and have been relatively underexplored by scientists. However, these operations can significantly impact the quality and consistency of the final product. We will address these operations in two separate entries. This first one is dedicated to division and rounding, while the subsequent entry will cover resting and shaping of the dough. Division After kneading, the dough can undergo a bulk fermentation or not. Typically,…

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Kneading

Kneading

Kneading is the process by which ingredients are mixed in bakery and the necessary mechanical work to form gluten is provided. Besides these primary functions, there are other essential phenomena that occur during kneading that are important to understand. Development of Gluten In the initial stage of kneading, proteins that will later form the gluten network are hydrated. Soluble components, such as salt, dissolve in water and remain in the aqueous phase. If there is oil or fats, they are…

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Equipment for Quality Control III: Fermentation

Equipment for Quality Control III: Fermentation

Rheofermentometer We have previously discussed in the blog about quality control equipment that simulates the kneading process or dough handling. Today, we will talk about a device that simulates the fermentation process. I believe it is very useful for certain aspects and practically has no alternative. While it is true that the Brabender company has marketed equipment for studying fermentation, called the maturograph, this equipment is practically obsolete. On the contrary, the reofermentometer, developed by the Chopin company, has become…

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Resting of dough and shaping

Resting of dough and shaping

Following the division of the dough pieces and rounding, these dough balls must undergo a short resting period to allow them to be properly shaped before the final fermentation and baking. Resting Resting the dough after rounding, and before shaping, is a common practice in bakery operations. The goal of this step is to modify the rheology of the dough to facilitate shaping. After the processes of dividing and rounding, the dough has been subjected to stress, reducing its extensibility….

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